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Fund-raising Ideas

Fund-raising is a very important component of our program and we look to our friends to help in this way. Here are some examples of fund-raising activities that you could try in your community.

Individual gift-giving: As people become more aware of the pressing needs in the developing world, individual gift-giving is an appropriate way to remember those less fortunate.

Donations to honour a special occasion (birthday, wedding, baby shower, anniversary, or In Memoriam, etc.) are acknowledged by a card to the individual saying that, to mark the occasion, you have sent a donation to the Osu Children’s Library Fund. Letters of gratitude from library members in Ghana will also be included. Tax receipts are automatically issued for gifts of $15 and more.

Fund-raising dinners: Approach a local restaurant to host a fund-raising dinner. Official tax receipts are issued for the difference between the meal cost and ticket price providing the donation is valued at $15 or more. Private dinner parties are also possible and, again, tax receipts can be issued for the difference between the ticket price and meal expenses. You could include a silent auction or raffle to raise additional funds. We have short DVDs that convey OCLF’s message that are available on loan. Depending on the location and time of the dinner, it is possible that Program Director Kathy Knowles will be able to make a presentation to invited guests.

Book Clubs: Many Book Clubs are using their groups to raise money for OCLF – again, an appropriate link. Some collect a toonie (or more) from each member every meeting, others ask for a one-time donation at the beginning or end of the year. We are happy to supply brochures to give to members.

"My bridge club of eight, meets every two weeks and each member gives $2 which we will be forwarding to you as our special charity." - an Ontario donor

Concerts: Organize a concert in your community and send a portion of the ticket sales to the OCLF.

Garage Sales: Everyone loves a garage sale! Besides getting rid of a lot of junk, you can benefit others by giving some or all of the proceeds to the OCLF.

Second-hand book fairs: This is a wonderful way for school children to raise money as it creates an awareness of the importance of reading and by extending those opportunities to others. High Park Alternative School in Toronto hosts an annual second-hand book sale where the proceeds are donated to OCLF.

Sponsored Walks or Runs: These are becoming increasingly popular.

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